Mobile Me

I'm a fluttery ball of excitement about today's news release of the iPhone 4 on Verizon. I feel that Apple's products are vastly superior designed machines with exceptional screen resolution, a pleasing interface, and cutting-edge hardware. I have solely owned Apple computers starting with my old Power Macintosh back in 1995. Yes, there are negatives and drawbacks to this Empire. But without exception, my Apple products have brought ease, simplicity, and style into my personal tech world. Until today, the only exception was my phone. Not anymore. I love the iPhone even before I own it. Why? It's inspirational to me. You're rolling your eyes, but really, it's a hand-held extension of my creative life. This is due in no small part to the multitude of iPhone apps that for the most part aren't available on Android. The decision to switch phones is purely emotional for me - to be able to play in the elegant sandbox of smart, inspired creativity that syncs with my commitment to Apple products at home.

That's not to say that I haven't had fun with the few creative apps that are available on Android. Here are three free, essential apps available on both iPhone and Android that I've been enjoying tremendously and will be downloading immediately upon receipt of my new iPhone. - l.o.d.

Photoshop Express
A mini version of the beloved software program, you can crop, rotate, color-correct, add soft focus or sepia effects, and add a vignette. It saps the phone's battery, but well worth it for picture quality when it's important.

Photoshop Express

Sketchbook Express
Extend your sketchbook to your phone with this professional-grade drawing app. Totally addictive.  

 

Sketchbook Express

Retro Camera
Turns your phone's camera into an instant artistic endeavor with options to use an assortment of "toy" cameras and image effects such as scratches and blurs.

Retro Camera